It was such a thrill, wasn’t it, when we’d spot a bald eagle? Back when we were kids, the birds were rare, and glimpsing one gliding through the air or perched on a branch was a big deal. Thankfully, bald eagles are no longer on the endangered species list — and more eagles means more cool ways to watch for them with our own kids in the winter.
At Bald Eagle Watching Days in Sauk Prairie, head to two Ferry Bluff Eagle Council overlooks, outfitted with scopes, to peek at the birds. And that’s just part of the fun, which also includes live birds of prey demonstrations, exhibits, kids’ activities, a pancake breakfast and a Wollersheim Winery tasting. If you can’t make the festivities on January 12 and 13, sign up for an Eagle Watching Bus Tour, offered on Saturdays from January 6 to February 17.
Eagle Days Along the Fox River boasts more than a dozen spots along the river from which to view the birds. Or learn from wildlife biologists and conservationists and see Wisconsin’s new bald eagle license plate design. See a bald eagle up close or greet a snowy owl, golden eagle, peregrine falcon and other exciting birds. Join bird guides on a hike or greet eagles at sunrise. Or bring kids for storytime and crafts in this celebration that takes place January 13, 20-21 and 27 in venues in Appleton, Neenah and Kaukauna.
Prairie du Chien’s Bald Eagle Appreciation Days mixes history, museum exhibits, demonstrations and more with eagle viewing in the Mississippi River valley. Bridges are popular perches for viewing the birds, and the Wisconsin Welcome Center has a mounted bird scope for getting a closer look. This year’s activities are held February 23 and 24.
And Bald Eagle Watching Day in Ferryville features presentations on eagles, falcons, raptors, owls and more, as well as their habitats. Children’s activities — including a hooting contest — round out this event on March 3.
Once your family has gone wild for bald eagles, keep in mind that you can adopt an eagle nest through a fundraising program of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources!